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Museum Administrator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Museum Specialist

Sells, AZ · On-site

$24.01/hr

Provides assistance to a curatorial division(s) or administrative office(s) as assigned by the Museum Administrator, where he/she will perform a variety of tasks, including but not limited to the ...

Museum Specialist

Sells, AZ · On-site

$24.01/hr

Provides assistance to a curatorial division(s) or administrative office(s) as assigned by the Museum Administrator, where he/she will perform a variety of tasks, including but not limited to the ...

Department Administrator

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$45K - $49K/yr

Department Administrator The American Museum of Natural History is one of the world's preeminent scientific and cultural institutions, and has as its mission to discover, interpret, and disseminate ...

DIRECTOR OF SCHIELE MUSEUM

Gastonia, NC · On-site

$106K - $170K/yr

... Schiele Museum by managing operations, maintaining standards, financial stability, long range ... to executive level administrators through conferences and reports. To learn more about this ...

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Museum Administrator information

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$56

How much do museum administrator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for museum administrator in the United States is $24.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.90 and $29.09 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a museum administrator?

Museum administrators are professionals responsible for overseeing the daily operations, management, and strategic planning of museums. They coordinate staff, manage budgets, develop policies, and ensure that exhibitions and educational programs run smoothly. Their duties often include fundraising, public relations, and maintaining compliance with regulations. Museum administrators play a crucial role in preserving collections and making sure the museum serves its educational and cultural mission. Their work ensures visitors have a meaningful and engaging experience.

What are some typical challenges museum administrators face in balancing operational needs with curatorial priorities?

Museum Administrators often navigate the challenge of supporting innovative exhibitions and educational programs while managing budgets, staffing, and facility maintenance. They must work closely with curators, educators, and conservators to ensure that operational decisions align with the museum's mission and the integrity of the collections. Effective communication and resource allocation are key, as administrators frequently mediate between creative aspirations and practical constraints. Those in this role thrive by fostering collaboration and developing flexible solutions that benefit both the institution and its audiences.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a museum administrator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Museum Administrator, you need a solid background in museum studies, art history, or business administration, often supported by a relevant degree and experience in cultural institutions. Familiarity with collections management systems, budgeting software, and grant writing tools is typically required. Strong leadership, organizational, and communication skills set exceptional administrators apart. These competencies are crucial for managing museum operations, engaging stakeholders, and ensuring the institution’s sustainability and growth.

What is the difference between Museum Administrator vs Museum Curator?

AspectMuseum AdministratorMuseum Curator
Primary RoleOversees daily operations, manages staff, and handles administrative tasksDevelops exhibits, conducts research, and manages collections
Required CredentialsOften requires a bachelor's degree in museum studies, management, or related fieldsTypically requires a master's degree in museum studies, history, or related disciplines
Work EnvironmentOffice setting within the museum, coordinating staff and operationsGallery and collection areas, engaging in research and exhibit development
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly employed by museums, cultural institutions, and non-profitsFound in similar settings, often collaborating with administrators

While both roles are essential in museums, the Museum Administrator focuses on managing operations and staff, whereas the Museum Curator concentrates on collections and exhibit development. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What cities are hiring for Museum Administrator jobs?

Cities with the most Museum Administrator job openings:

Who are the top companies hiring for Museum Administrator jobs?

The top employers for Museum Administrator jobs are:

What states have the most Museum Administrator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Museum Administrator jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Museum Administrator jobs?

For Museum Administrator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Museum Administrator job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,881 per year, or $24.5 per hour.

Museum Specialist

Sells, AZ • On-site

$24.01/hr

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

The position is located in [Topawa, AZ].
Position Summary:
Under general supervision, performs a variety of semi-technical activities to assist the curatorial divisions and administrative offices in connection with the operations and cultural programming for the Cultural Center and Museum.
The work is normally reviewed upon completion, with occasional spot checks while in process, to ensure accuracy, timeliness and conformance to established standards; major work tasks are covered by instructions or procedures and unusual situations are referred to a supervisor.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Works closely with elders, school children, members of the community, researchers, and other interested individuals and groups to help carry out the mission of Himdag Ki: Hek hu, Hemu, Im B I-Ha'ap, the Tohono O'odham Nation Cultural Center and Museum.
  • Processes archival and artifact collections, conduct data entry, gather information for use in educational and administrative reports, newsletters, and other types of publications and assist in the production of same.
  • Assists in multi-media presentations, exhibition development and installation, membership and other services, and other museum-related activities.
  • Provides assistance to a curatorial division(s) or administrative office(s) as assigned by the Museum Administrator, where he/she will perform a variety of tasks, including but not limited to the following:
  • Performs routine processing and data-entry of archival and artifact collections.
  • Assists in multi-media presentations to visitors, students, and others.
  • Assists in the planning and execution of public programs and public outreach.
  • Assists with activities related to exhibition planning and installation, artists' workshops and museum sponsored events, etc.
  • Assist in the administrative areas of information management, development, or public relations.
  • Performs any combination of the above.
  • Participate in cross-training to assist in the most effective operation of the Cultural Center and Museum.
  • Performs other job related duties as assigned and contributes to a team effort.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
  • Knowledge of the Tohono O'odham culture, customs, and traditions.
  • Knowledge of applicable federal, state, tribal laws, regulations and requirements.
  • Knowledge of museum procedures.
  • Skill in operating various work-processing, spreadsheets, and database software.
  • Skill in providing superior customer service to external and internal customers.
  • Skill in detail and organizational skills.
  • Ability to multitask essential.
  • Ability to interact with different age groups.
  • Ability to communicate efficiently and effectively both verbally and in writing.
  • Ability to maintain privileged confidential information.
  • Ability to work independently and meet strict time lines.
  • Ability to work extended hours and various work schedules.
  • Ability to establish and maintain positive and effective working relationships with other employees and the general public.
  • Ability to travel within the interior/exterior boundaries of the Tohono O'odham Nation.

Minimum Qualifications:
Associate's Degree in Library Science, Anthropology or closely related field, and two years' work experience in a museum, cultural institution, or similar organization, or an equivalent combination of training, education, and work experience which demonstrates the ability to perform the duties of this position.
Licenses, Certifications, Special Requirements:
  • Upon recommendation for hire, a criminal background check is required to determine suitability for hire, including a 39-month Motor Vehicle Record.
  • May require possessing and maintaining a valid driver's license, (no DUIs or major traffic citations within the last three years).
  • If required, must meet the Tohono O'odham Nation tribal employer's insurance requirements to receive a driver's permit to operate program vehicles.
  • Based on the department's needs, incumbents may be required to demonstrate fluency in both the Tohono O'odham Language and English as a condition of employment.